Delhi HC Directs Govt to Frame Policy for Phased Removal and Rehabilitation of Street Dogs [Read Order]

NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi government to frame a comprehensive policy for the phased removal and rehabilitation of stray dogs from the city’s streets, emphasizing that mere vaccination and sterilization are no longer sufficient given the rising number of dog bite incidents and public concerns.

The direction came from Justice Mini Pushkarna, who was hearing a petition filed by 80-year-old Pratima Devi. She had approached the court after the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) demolished her makeshift shelter in Saket, where she cared for over 200 stray dogs. While the court initially ordered MCD to maintain status quo and consider the woman’s rehabilitation, it has now expanded the scope to address the broader issue of stray dog management across the city.

Highlighting that letting sterilized and vaccinated dogs roam freely on the streets is not a sustainable solution, the court underscored the need for institutional shelters to house and rehabilitate stray animals. “The Chief Secretary of GNCTD is requested to call a meeting of all stakeholders to formulate a policy for removing stray dogs from the streets and rehabilitating them in institutional shelters,” the court’s May 21 order stated.

The court noted that a prior joint meeting between the MCD, Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), and the petitioner’s representatives resulted in the decision to release the sterilized dogs back onto the streets. However, Justice Pushkarna observed that with such a large number of animals, this approach could create serious safety concerns for both residents and the dogs themselves.

The court urged the Delhi government, MCD, and AWBI to work in coordination to craft a robust and humane policy. Recognizing the sensitivity and scale of the issue, the court has set the next hearing for August 6, giving the Chief Secretary sufficient time to consult stakeholders and present a structured action plan.

Advocate Malavika Chandramouli appeared for the petitioner, while Standing Counsel Siddhant Nath, along with Advocates Bhavishya Makhija and Amaan Khan, represented the MCD.

This move comes at a time when urban residents and authorities alike are grappling with how to balance public safety, animal welfare, and urban management — particularly in a city where dog bites and stray dog populations have become pressing issues.
 

[Read Order]